Joleesa's Results

After blood tests, urine tests and multiple xrays they sent Joleesa home with strong pain medicine saying she has a strained back. We pushed for answers for her persistent back pains and got nothing. I know the Lord's able to heal and if there was something and He healed through the prayers, AWESOME, but if not what's the problem? I'm afraid what this all is going to cost as my insurance has a high deductible so it'll all be on us. Then on top of that it was December 29th so the dollars will be washed out in two days anyway as the new year starts. If I only had some answers the frustration of the cost wouldn't be so great but I feel we're still where we were when we enter the doors in the first place. I hate myself for even be concerned about because I'm grateful at the same time they didn't find anything. Does that make any sense at all. Any way, thanks for the prayers. Please continue to pray for her back and Jenna's shoulder. God created them in the first place he can heal them.

Also, please pray for Brother Nowling and myself today. We are dealing with some things that we need God to guide us in.

Alyeska, snowboarding and visiting with Sister Annette

No, I didn't go snow boarding, but Joleesa did. She got her first lesson from Matthew Peter. I had to take a day off work as we're suppose to get our birthday off but we were too busy for them to let me have off. Then I have to work around my bosses schedule as he is also over our Kenai office and has had some quit there so he's having to be gone on Friday, Monday and Tuesday and we're suppose to take it within 30 days of our b-day. Anyway, Matthew had said when we first got here he would show Joleesa how to snow board but it hadn't happened. She has to get 90 hours of physical ed in by January 15th with it's goal as to learn to enjoy to winter sports...she has maybe about 12 hours in so we need to push to get her some hours so Matthew was more than happy to take us (Joleesa and I) up kind of last minute yesterday. Now remember, Joleesa loves the hot summer days, and the water AND is afraid of heights like her dad. It was BEAUTIFUL day, it started out raining but turned to snow as we pulled in, picture perfect. Once I paid out the big bucks for the lifts and her rental I decided not to get me tram tickets and I just stayed at the bottom of the pony hill and watched. They went up the lifts and Matthew tried to keep her thinking about other things but I guess the first time she hyperventalated but the second time she enjoyed the beauty. I brought a book to read but never opened it and watched the people and enjoyed being outdoors. After many falls and a couple of wipe outs she found herself staying up and going down. I got some pictures on Matthew's camera that I'll have to see if I can post. All and all she enjoyed it but, she said she'd rather have boards on the bottom of her feet, behind a boat and in 90 degree weather. She's pretty sore to say the least. But she got several hours to add to phy ed and she had a new experience and I enjoyed a relaxful day surrounded by a winter wonderland of mountains. Thank you Matthew! He's quite the snowboarder even though he never got the time to go up the summit. Next time.

After taking Joleesa to work I met Sister Annette at Village Inn for supper. Just the two of us. It was great. Two hours of visiting with my sister, just her and I. How much better could it get. A great ending to a relaxful day.

Have a great day.

Oh by the way, I'm NOT giving a way any of Ulus~smile.

3 Ulus for Christmas

Well Christmas is behind us and I got 3 Ulus (?) a rounded Alaskan knife. One came with a cutting board and bear claws for salad, another with a stand and the last one was handmade by eskimoes. I'm giving a single one a way. They are awesome. I was able to cut through a squash with no problems, besides worry about my thumb getting cut off as I was holding it. Thank you, to the Texters, the Grants and the Suttons for giving me, as Brother Grant put it "the gift every Alaskan mother needs".

We had a great time with the Suttons. I fixed brisket and ham for Christmas dinner. The brisket went in the oven at 9 am and camae out at 5 pm I wasn't sure how it would turn out as I didn't have my "Texas" brisket rub that had been given to me in the past. I used a steak rub and Lawry's season salt and it was SUBERP! We are fighting over the leftovers. Seriously the flavor was great, it was soooooo tender and moist. It couldn't have been better. Us ladies visited with Sister Annette in the kitchen (Joleesa kind of went between the kitchen and the living room where the men were, traitor ~grin). We really enjoyed ourselves. Matthew got here about 4:30 and ate but after being up 26 hours he couldn't stay awake and was snoring on the counch. As Jody would say, it was quite cozy with the fireplace and Christmas music going. I got a dvd which is a fireplace that has Christmas music, or you can choose just the ambiance of the fire place. We hung two little stockings on the tv above the fireplace for the Suttons ~shaking head and grinning. After cleaning up from Christmas dinner Tim and Larry stopped in with more gifts and stayed and visited. The men in the living room while the ladies played "I Buy". Hey Bethel folks, Sister Annette now knows how to play "I Buy". I actually won, although we didn't go through all the rounds.

Well yesterday was back to work. It's end of the calendar year so it's clean up time of accounts...but the holidays are in the past so things are slowing down for me as much they ever will when you work at a newspaper. Jody still has at least this week at Fed Ex because of the Denver snow storm things are just now coming in so he'll be busy still this week. The girls survived the day after Christmas in the retail business. Now we get to look forward to our New Year's Eve Watch night service, taking the tree down and finding out what a "normal" day during Alaska's winter is. I'm not saying this sarcastically either. We are looking forward to it.

A Different Sort of Christmas

But All Is Good! Well, we got the girls bedrooms switched around. Well the furniture anyway. Jenna had to work but after Jessa and I picked Joleesa up from work, got some breakfast, We then went to Fred Meyer so Jessa could go to the bank and Joleesa could do some more of her shopping. then we went to work on moving things. We still havent switched their closets. We've got to take the stuff of what was Jenna's closet as to get the boxes out of what was Joleesa's closet and put them down in the crawl space in what is now Joleesa's closet and then they switch their clothes. Did you follow all that. Anyway the rest is up to them to do. They all seemed pleased with it. That is such a HUGE stress off my shoulders. The rest of the night was spent grocery shopping and then getting ready for church Sunday.

I loved our bulletins; I decided to make the inside a birth anouncement saying "IT'S A BOY" and the outside was a design listing the names of Jesus. Sunday School started out very heavy because as we were speaking of peace I knew there were those in our midst that didn't have peace...I broke down crying as I was teaching and asked for this individual to come forward for prayer. What better thing to take place at Christmas and in SS then to have some be released from their struggle and find peace. We had a great season on prayer before even going into the worship service.

I then spent the afternoon with Brother Tim in a marothon of shopping on Christmas Eve... he had asked me to help him and even though I had been saying all along that I would not be in the stores on Christmas eve there I was. And I was exhausted. But we had our Christmas eve candle light service that I was in charge of. The theme was "The Word was Made Flesh...." I had found some readings (short stories) depicting Mary's and Joseph's emotions in dealing with incarnate birth. Along with all that we got to surprise the local church with the Suttons presence. We knew they were going to be there but we kept it surprise for everyone else. All and all the service went well. Jessa ended the service with an awesome job on "Word of God Speaks". Sister Grant had to work so we all headed over to Alaska Airlines to sing caroles for her and her co-workers. She was surprised to see Suttons and she seemed very pleased. From there we went to the only restraunt open in town, TGI Fridays. Suttons were really hungry for steak so it wourk out great.

We were going to go look at Christmas lights but I was exhausted. I hadn't slept good the last two nights. We came home and stayed with our tradition of opening stockings and the gifts of pjs that we always get. I got all the girls Aeropostale pjs and for the first year ever, they all fit and they all loved them. So finally by about midnight we were in bed.

We were'nt going to get up until 8 am but it seems everyone woke up at 7 am or earlier (I had another rotten nights sleep and was awake by 6 am) so we shared the Christmas story had our prayer and called the grandparents. We put them on speaker phone and it seemed like we were together. My parents are in a nursing and they didn't get our package yet (went out the same day as the Adams and my mother-in-law, but they didn't get theirs) bummer. But they were both excited to talk to us. It was good and the tears came but it was ok.

Now, I've put the brisket in and I'm just relaxing (maybe I"ll even take a power namp) until the Suttons come at 2 pm and then Matthew Peter will be here for Christmas dinner at about 5 pm.

Like I said...a different sort of Christmas. But it's been good. Hope everyone else had a great day.

Emotional Havoc

It is 2 am and I was asleep but woke up with my pillow wet from my tears. Last night our family was experiencing emotional havoc. This is suppose to be "the most wonderful time of the year". I have made it a point in the past to not allow us to get too stressed. But the enemy is alive and well and doing his thing. Between Jody's long hours and being so phyiscally exhausted, my fast pace at work and being mentally exhausted, and then the girls...You know I don't think it will be as hard to see them leave "the nest" as it is for them to find their way "out of the nest." College or marriage is such an easy way for them to leave but when neither of them happen (especially when they're wanting it too) it's where and how do they do it. Then I have one that is so anxious to leave as soon as she is old enough to and I know where she is going is not a spiritually safe place for her to be.

I thank God that they know Him. I can't imagine how this turmoil would be if they didn't. But are they strong enough to endure the test? Please Lord let them be.

As a mother, how can I help. I feel so lost some times. And some times I just feel I make matters worse. Something as small as trying to give them their own personal space in a small house, and being fair in it, is seeming insurmountable. We need to switch rooms around. My idea of giving the two oldest the smallest so they'd move out sooner...BAD, BAD idea. They want to move out, but it's just not possible at this time. They need the bigger room so they at least have breathing space, forget private, just breathing space. BUT they all want to be present when we do it. Yeah right, with their job schedules, and then we need some muscles, and the muscles that WOULD be available have job schedules too.

I've been thinking a lot about one of the many "gifts" of Christmas that Christ's birth brought. "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men". Right now my spirit cries for peace!

We desire your prayers. We know we're where the Lord wants us to be...but Lord give us peace and help us to find Your way for our family and for our local church.

Christmas still is the most wonderful time of the year!!! Because of it, I'm not sitting here alone. Emmanuel---God with us.

A Brighter Outlook

Well I got my new glasses and I love driving with them. Things are so bright and clear. And I don't even mind driving at night. The opitician convinced me to get anti-glare because of my difficulty driving at night and then he said it would make a difference with the snow. And he was right on both counts. BUT I wear bifocals and I'm having a terrible time on the computer at work. I've had bifocals for years but these frames are smaller so it's difficult to find the right height for my computer so I'm not having to stick my nose in the air as to be able to read. I'm sure people are walking by my new corner of my world (they moved me over the weekend) thinking boy she's sure got her nose up in the air, who does she things she is anyway. ~grinning ~ not really. But my neck sure hurts at the end of the day. All and all, I like my glasses, I just hope I adjust quickly.

To another subject. We got about 8 inches of snow today and it's still snowing. We're expected to get a foot by the time it's done. It's pretty but as always, a lot of accidents.

Oh yeah, yesterday when I got to work there was a MOOSE cow in the News parking lot. I followed her around, taking pictures with my camera phone. Then I parked and she was on the curb nibbling the branches of a tree. I had Jody on the phone and he said I should pet it ~ joking I hope ~ I got within 50 feet and took another picture with my camera. I now just need to see if Josh can get them off my camera so I can post them. It was still dark at 8 am, so I'm not sure how good they are. I'm hoping once they get on the computer they'll look better than they do on the phone. Then as I was going home there was Moose just meandering down the street. You would have thought she was pedestrian as she was following the rules of pedestrians and walking towards the traffic (that's the right way, isn't it?). It's something how Anchorage is a good size city and moose wander the streets almost as much as people.

Well, my shopping's all done. I went last night until about 10:30 pm as I was determined to not have to go out again. Then tonight Joleesa helped me start wrapping gifts. She did the cutting as the movement of that seems to have the most effect on my elbow. We got some of Jody's wrapped, all but one of Jenna's, and all of Jessa's but then I ran out tape. BUMMER! Oh well, Jenna will help me wrap Joleesa's and the rest of Jody's tomorrow and then I got a little something for each of the church people. Plus, stocking stuffers (those I'll have to do as they all get the same thing). I may have blown it as I was putting Jessa's gifts out to wrap, I accidently got one of Joleesa's out and Joleesa picks it up asking what it was (there's something else that goes with it), I grabbed it from her and threw it back in my closet and got the right gift. OOPS! I don't know if she had time to figure it out or not. Oh well, it never fails, they always seem to figure out, or maybe are even with me for at least one of their gifts ~grin~ they don't care if they know, they still get it and doesn't cost them.

So tomorrow I finish wrapping gifts. Friday while Jody and Joleesa finish their shopping (I feel for them as they fight the crowds and the "out of stock" frustrations), I'll work on our Christmas eve service and then on Saturday we'll clean house, bake and yuck go grocery shopping for Christmas dinner. BUT then Sunday will be time to relax and enjoy the day and be relaxed for Christmas day.

I've enjoyed the Christmas songs this year more than ever. I really encourage everyone to worship during the songs...I sure found myself worshipping my Christ!

Well enough rambling hope everyone is sleeping well, and enjoy this best time of the year! The birth of our Savior!

Busy, Busy, Busy

Ok I was worn out before I ever got to work. I was up at 6:30 a.m. to make my soup for the pot luck. It wouldn't have been so bad but my crock pot wasn't big enough. Then I had to make two trips to the car and wound up forgetting my purse! I recognized when I stopped at the Holiday station to get bowls, as I wasn't sure they'd have it at work. Couldn't get them! No purse. Oh well, I was pretty one of the many men would be going out to pick up something for the pot luck and I would just have them get some and pay them back. I didn't have to. The lady in charge of the pot luck saw soup on the sign up sheet and bought some. How great was that. Anyway, I then parked out front so that I could bring my soup up the two flights using the elevator. Went back to the car and parked in the employee parking lot and went up again. They moved me into a different desk over the weekend so I had to move all my stuff. By 10 am I was ready for bed. But the soup was a hit.

We had a Chinese Auction. We did $15 gifts and I got a $10 gift card for Coldstone (my favorite ice cream) and a moose ornament.

I should wrap gifts but my arm is really hurting (I broke my elbow as a kid and had many surgeries on it through Shriner's hospital). I don't know if it's all the wrapping or the weather (it's been snowing all day), although it's been hurting since Saturday. I could really use your prayer for my arm. It's my right arm and it gets so bad I can't even pick things up some times.

Anyway, maybe I'll just do a couple gifts we'll see.

Sis. Tammi - Brother Nowling says he won't invoke man law any more until after Christmas~big smile. You saw it in print. We'll see! wink

Officially Shopped Out!

Thanks Jenna, you've succeeded again! I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas through my blog so she did this. Isn't it great????

What a weekend. Saturday started out with my getting packages and cards ready to take to Fed Ex. I'm so glad Brother Nowling gets 50% off, as mailing five packages added up. We then went to the bank to switch our truck loan from Wisconsin to Alaska and then headed home. I waited for Josh but he got tied up at the Mac Store so he met Joleesa and I and he became my lead car to many different stores.It wasn't so much big crowds at the stores I went to but we did fight the parking crowds. We then met up with Jody and the girls at Fred Meyer. By the way, that's after many calls from Jody whining about the crowds. His first call reminded me he didn't like shopping, or crowds and told me that his shopping "experience" is a part of my Christmas gift. Somebody tell him "man law" doesn't cover shopping malls.

So more shopping at Fred Meyer including grocery shopping for the Church pot luck as well as my work one. In regards to church. I have been really praying that the Spirit would break loose, as it has been a while. Brother Nowling and I talked about going early to church to pray. Last night I stayed up past midnight (which is really unusual for me) doing the bulletin, studying SS lesson, and getting things ready for the pot luck but constantly praying for our service this morning. Brother Nowling and I got up and got everything done and headed over to the church to pray...and we opened the door shocked. Tables were all set up in the Church. It looked pretty but it wasn't church. So many emotions I had to fight through. The Lord helped me though and we had a wonderful time of worshipping the Christ Child. Then went into the pot luck that had had some miscommunications but was still great. Larry Willoya can really cook and bake. He made a great stir fry, and a fabulous chocolate cream cheese bundt cake.

From there Brother Nowling and Joleesa and I headed to Fed Ex to mail our last package which we had to pay full price as he forgot his badge, but it was a smaller box this time...oh by the way, I found the greatest spice and tea store. I'm going to definitely have to go back there. We then headed to WalMart (I really don't like Walmart). Don't chew me out Sis. Net...stock lines the aisles that you can't get around coupled with the crowds. Everything's been moved so you can't find anything. Ugh!!! But I'm down to just two more gifts! Yes, they will be gotten the next couple of day as I will NOT shop next weekend.

I actually took a short nap on the couch (something I rarely do) in front of our tv fireplace with Christmas music. I bought a dvd that is a fireplace (sound affects and the burning down of the logs and all) with Christmas music. It's unique, but unfortunately it doesn't put off any heat ~grin.

Lastly, we told Brother Grant that we'd come early to clean up the church and put everything back. He said he wouldn't promise that he wouldn't have it done. We came early any way and Sis. Grant was there to meet us (pray for her she has been working soooooo many hours she missing out on church and she really misses it)and I walked in and sure enough they cleaned up and changed everything from the way we had the church set up...once again different emotions, but Sis. Grant had decorated it for Christmas and it looked really nice and she was excited to see whaat we thought. It was Jenna's service and she did it on "Being the Bethleham Light" it was good.

We came home and cleaned house and now I have to wrap gifts for work and go to bed as I have to get up early to make Zuppa Tascona (potato sausage soup recipe from Olive Garden Restraunt) for my pot luck at work.

Everyone have a great week.

Christmas-where have the days gone?

I mean literally. I don't see daylight all week long as it doesn't get light until about 10 am and I don't know when it gets dark but I believe about 3:30-4pm. I go to work and it's pitch black and I come home and it's pitch black. Strange.

But Christmas is a week from Monday. Ugh, scream! For some reason I was thinking I had more time. I want to do something for the church people and I'm not crafty like some bloggers are ~sigh~ I have packages to get out yet to our parents, family and friends...I thought I still had plenty of time. The girls had to wait for payday to buy for their grandparents. Thankfully Brother Nowling gets a discount at Fed Ex so that's how we'll ship then. Then wrapping the gifts...Jenna reminded me that usually by this time the gifts are all under the tree and so far there's not a one. Because I haven't wrapped them and I'm not done shopping.

Shopping, Brother Nowling's going shopping tomorrow with his daughters. I told him I was going to "borrow" some sons so I wouldn't have to go by myself ~pout~ Any volunteers (Micah I miss you)? ~grin~

And the cards - I usually have them out by my birthday, but...they're done, but...we're including a letter and we were going to put our pictures on it and have it printed at Kinkos. Not going to happen. I'm going to print the letter and get them in the mail tomorrow!!! I want them out of here so I can feel like I have something done ~grin.

Anyway, I'm glad it's Friday. We'll be wrapping gifts to be mailed tonight and Saturday looks like we'll be fighting the crowds. I've got to find a book and Bible store!!! Ugh! I've been told there's one here in town and Brother Nowling and I went looking a few weeks ago to no avail...maybe my "son(s)" will take me there tomorrow.

Gotta run another day on the job. Have a great one! By the way its 15 degrees here!

Waiting!

Waiting is never easy. But I look at a child or a youth and see how much more difficult that is and my devotion reminded me of this very much.
Isaiah 40:30-31
Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint

This hit me this morning as to why so many youth fall. Patience comes through maturity and some times when we are needing something from God, He requires us to seriously wait on Him and seek HIS way. As a adults we find that very hard, how much more difficult for our children and our youth.

The enemy is using tools of depression (bipolar is the explanation everywhere these days), discouragement, lonliness to draw our people away. Isaiah PROMISES us that IF we wait on the LORD, our strenth SHALL be renewed. Not only renewed but ride above the storms like the eagles do. We will RUN and not grow weary. Usually when one starts out in a race the longer they're in they start to tire. Oh but not the Christian, the longer we're in it we grow STRONGER.

May God help us to WAIT on Him for direction, for the answer.

Please pray for my family.

Email address and snail mail address

Brother Nowling has gotten requests that we post our addresses. Considering we've moved I can understand why. I just hope I don't regret it~grimaces~

J Nowling
5101 Hatcher Circle, Unit A
Anchorage, AK 99508
jodyandjada.nowling@gmail.com

Ummmm!

I had a busy week end. Got my eye exam Saturday morning. I had to find the place in the dark and heavy snow but I found it and like I figured my vision has changed considerably. Especially in my left eye along with my astigmatism getting worse in both eyes. So no wonder I can't see street signs, hence why I have difficulty getting around Anchorage. I didn't even really realize it until I got here. After all I didn't have to look at street signs in Menomonie.

After the exam I came home and cleaned house. I put on Christmas music and REALLY cleaned. Matthew walked in later and said it didn't feel like home any more because it was sooo clean. That made me feel good, but the "clean" didn't last long. You get 5 bodies in this house plus friends, as small as it is, it gets cluttered real fast. And no I wasn't upset about Jenna's chair. It actually is a perfect fit.

Anyway, I then worked all evening on the VLB Christmas service and party. It was last night. All and all I think it went well. They seemed to have fun but listen as we talked about the Gifts that are part of the gift of Love that Jesus gave when he came to earth. Then I emphasized giving Him something....that's the part I hope that hit home.

I don't know for sure what is this morning but I feel a real heaviness, sadness. I just want to cry and I have to face some major problems when I get to work. I'm really not looking forward to this day. I need His peace and strength to wrap itself around me today.

Thanks For the Prayers

I am feeling much better to say the least. My mouth still has a lot of canker sores in it and I feel a little pressure in my sinuses but other than that I feel fine.

Today was a rough day at work. Over the 3 months I have been at this job I have made several mistakes. The problem is when I make a mistake, as my bosses bosses boss says, it's the number of 0s behind my mistakes that makes the difference. I handle National accounts like Sears, Penneys, Alaska Airlines, grocery stores and they run ads worth 10's of thousands of dollars. Today I was dealing with the credit manager and accounts that are having rate disputes. Some from back before I came and some since. Bottom of line, one is holding back $40,000 in payment until it's cleared up. It was just one after another hitting me. Until I once again was asking if I was in over my head. If I was in the right job and so on. Any way, my bosses boss, Mike was tossing a stress ball up in the air and I said "hey I need that" and someone asked why and I said "because I'm really stressed". A little later apparently I was walking down the hall and Mike through the ball at me and it fell short and rolled and actually hit my foot and I didn't even notice it. I was so focused on everything. He came up to me and asked if I was ok. Now, I don't know Mike very well. He's probably in his late twenties to early 30's and seems quite reserved. He went on to say he didn't believe me and asked me what was up. As I began to share a few things, he assured me not worry but then went on to ask what accounts takes up most my time. On the spur of the moment it was hard to respond. He went on to say that he was going to get some of the stuff off my desk as it was unfair to expect anyone to try to handle all that I've been handling. Then went on to ask me how HE could help me at that moment and I assured him I was fine. Mind you this ar 4:30 pm, I go home in an hour. Next thing I saw Mike in with his boss with the door closed. He comes out of there and goes right in my boss, Mark's office and closes the door...of course I was wondering what's up. Sure enough Mark calls me at 5:30 pm (which he frequently does as make sure I don't stay late, not because of overtime, just because he knows I don't take breaks), I answered the phone (we have caller ID for inter-office calls)"I know, I'm leaving" and he said as long as you're still here let's leave you on the clock and come see me". Sure enough Mike told him we need to figure out what we can take off my desk (and Mark's too, that man doesn't have time to breathe). So this weekend I'm suppose to think about what is the most time consuming and they are committed to within the week to relieve me of some things. That doesn't mean everything and anything will go. I know there are some accounts I must handle, but we're going to figure out if I get some of the paper work off my desk or something. They assure me I'm the perfect fit for the position. I tell you, when you can't finish one thing before you have 6 more thrown at you, all on the same deadlines you really begin to wonder.

All in all they're a good bunch to work for and they are really trying to help relieve some of my stress.

Both Brother Nowling and myself jobs have brought lots of stress but we are so greatful that God has provided. We know the longer we are on them the easier things will get. For Brother Nowling, things will let up after the holidays, and for me somewhat too.

Well tomorrow I FINALLY go to get my eyes checked. I haven't had an exam for about 3 years and I know my vision has changed. I have a very difficult time seeing the street signs. I can't read them until I get right up to them. It's been real difficult seeing as I don't know my way around the city. I didn't realize it really until we moved. In Menomonie I never paid any attention to street signs, I knew where I was going. Thankfully I have vision insurance. I probably will have to order the glasses so it'll still be another week or so. I need to get them before I go for my driver's test as I probably wouldn't pass the eye exam. Although, I shouldn't worry, I probably won't pass the written exam. I've had so many people say they had to take it more than once.

After my eye exam, I hope to FINISH up my Christmas shopping and then come home and work on my VLB program for Sunday night. I'm making special gift for each youth and that gift will be a part of our program and then following the service they'll do their gift exchange.

Well I think I'll head to bed. Have a great weekend.

THANKS FOR THE BIRTHDAY WISHES!

I want to thank everyone for the Birthday wishes. It has been kind of a bummer of day. Feeling rotten like I did today didn't start the day out very good. Jody did leave me a birthday card but I spoke to Jessa and Jenna only briefly this morning and there were no birthday wishes at that time. Then I get to work and the new girl calls in sick. I was slammed with my work and hers. Several at the office could tell I wasn't feeling well and tried to be helpful to me any way they could. The Anchorage Daily News was sponsors of the Aces Hockey game tonight and I was asked to help pass out megaphones to the first 2000 guests. I asked Brother Nowling if I could this once and he was ok with it. By doing that I got two free tickets. The person that I had asked to go with me cancelled out on me 45 minutes before we were to leave. I was SOOOO disappointed, frustrated, bummed, angry, felt like par for the course the way the day was going. Joleesa went with me and it was a different experience. In Menomonie, being involved in these simple things in the community opened doors for us. Mind you, Anchorage is much bigger...so it make take a little longer for those doors to be found, let alone opened. Anyway, we only stayed for the first period. I didn't do it for the hockey game as I have never followed hockey. We went over to church right as it was ending. They sang happy birthday to me, Sister Grant had a nice little gift for me, Josh, Tim, Jenna, Joleesa and I went to Coldstone and got the ice cream of I've been craving, I came home and read the nice birthday greetings and now I'm going to bed.

Thanks again for the birthday greetings. I'm feeling considerably better than I did this morning but my right ear has really been paining me on day. Please continue to pray that this bug will be stamped out.

The Bug Has Found Me

This bug that's been going around has decided to visit me for awhile. My head, ears, throat and chest all hurt. I desire your prayers as I have to keep going. I finally am semi-caught up at work and missing one day would put me so behind again. It managed to by pass me the first time it visited our home, but not this time. I want to evict it, terminate it, I want it TO DIE! Seriously, I do desire your prayers.

Thanks and I hope everyone has a good day.

MY DATE WITH MY HUSBAND!

Last night was another night for my book of memories (the one in my head, I never remembered to actually start a physical one~tee hee). After shopping with Jenna all day I came home and gave Jody the slacks and dress shirt that I bought him (he was needing some new clothes and I thought it would be good for him to have them for our date). We both got dressed up, had Jenna take pictures by the Christmas tree and the piano.




and then headed to Wasilla (about 1 hr from here). The play didn't start until 6:30 but we wanted to take our time and we both like to be early. Wasilla is in the valley and the winds were terrible. We pulled into town about 5:30pm and found a little gift/coffee shop (every store in Alaska seems to have a coffee shop in them) called Loonattic. So we did a little Christmas Shopping and had a cup of coffee. We checked a local map to find the exact location of the dinner theatre and arrived about 6:10 p.m. We were the second guests (customers) to arrive. It was a good thing to as it wasn't very big. It was built in 1917 and had a lot of the original furniture and wood, floor, etc. It had a loft area that had railings going around it. It was decorated beauifully with red velvelt bows, white lights, pine cones, old fashion Christmas Dolls, etc. The tables were old wooden, mismatched tables with the same for chairs. It seated about 50 people cozied (I use that word lightly)in together. We took a front table, left of the stage against the wall. We were one of the few out of the way for everyone. Problem was, to use the restroom, you had to go on stage and across to the other side. I don't know if it was the coffee or what, but once we got there my stomach started cramping up and I had to visit the restroom several times (by the way the restroom had antique furniture it also, AND was sooooo cold). We sat with our tea and diet Coke until about 7 pm when they started serving our salad, than our prime rib, baked potato (which was huge), green beans and carrot cake. The food was good. They then removed some tables and had us squeeze even closer together to create a 4' aisle and the play began about 8 pm. It actually unfolded all around us. On the stage, in the loft, back by the door and right in the middle of the crowd. It was an 1 1/2 long and was great. The man who played Scrooge adapted it for this presentation, and directed it. Jody's co-worker was the angel past that had all the chains (he did great). We've seen various productions of Scrooge; from the big, elaborate with all kinds of special effects to this simple, quaint one. I really enjoyed the production. The actors did an awesome job, they had lots of singing in it that was beauiful,the building, the ambiance, and the "date" made this one the most enjoyable. The drive home was beautiful with the silohette of the mountains.

I was kicking myself that I didn't bring a camera and then the announcement was made that no photography was allowed...so the fact there are no pictures isn't totally a matter that I forgot~grin, but I would've liked to have pictures of the building~shrugs shoulders.

All in all in was a good date, a good night, and good early birthday celebration as Jody informed me.

IT SNOWED!!! AND CONTINUES TO SNOW!!!

That's great you say, but not for Brother Nowling he delivers FED EX in the Palmer area which has mountainess (is that a word) roads. Winding and deep into wooded area. It'll be gorgeous for him but also dangerous. Please remember as he goes throughout your day. Also please remember Jessa in your prayers.

Have a great day. I want to listen to Christmas music today.

Not Much Happening...

Sorry Sis. Tammi my blog isn't going to be interesting either. Nothing happening here except coooooold. It's supposedly warmed up but it feels so damp. They say we're suppose to get snow but we haven't seen any since Halloween. I would say I "wish" we would get some but Brother Nowling has to drive in it...so I can't "wish" for it, but it would make it pretty again. Although I don't know why it should matter to me anyway as all I see is darkness. It's pitch black when I go to work at 8:30 and when I come home at 5:30. I'm not by a window but when I walk by and think to look out; it seems like it's always dark out so I'm not sure what time it starts getting light.
The weekend should be interesting seeing as that's when the light/darkness shall be noticed by me. Speaking of this weekend Jenna, Joleesa and I (maybe Jessa too, I don't know) will be going shopping after we pick Joleesa up from work at 11 am. Then that evening Brother Nowling and I have a date. A real date. He has asked me to a dinner theatre with prime rib and then the play Scrooge. It seems one of the guys he works with is in the play. The Morman Church is putting it on. Brother Nowling felt like it was a neutral way of getting the door open to us without having to compromise and walk through their church doors as it's at the performing arts theatre. He usually doesn't like plays but he said he's actually looking forward to it. And me, I LOVE PLAYS and he will rarely go with me. So anyway I'm really looking forward to it.

By the way, please pray for Sister Texter (Sis. Grant's mother). We didn't have church last night as she was taken to the hospital by ambulance just before church time. Almost the whole church went to the hospital. Her blood pressure was extremely high, her chest and arm were hurting and she was feeling nauseaus. She did spend the night for observation and then some tests today. She was feeling putting good today and was suppose to go home. I don't know what the results were so please remember her in your prayers.

Well Sister Tammi hopefully my ramblings has entertained you or at least helped kill a few more boring minutes. I'll let you know how the play is.

The Kid In Me...

Christmas brings out the kid me, so that's why the Winnie Pooh scene. Jenna's done it again...although the picture is bigger than we wanted, she had a difficult time finding one that would work. Micah I want you to know I saved your template because I will definately be going back to it. When trying to decide on a template I was trying to find something pretty; after all someone my age should have something that reflects that she's an adult...but the kid in me won out. I have always loved Pooh...and Eeyore, Tiger and Piglet too! My watch has Pooh on it. I have clothing with the different characters on it. I don't think I'll ever out grow Pooh! Thankfully Joleesa also liked Pooh. Maybe not to the extreme that I do and she is outgrowing him although her stuffed Pooh still goes a lot of places with her. She gave me an excuse to buy Pooh~sticking out bottom lip in a pout~but not any more. I also think teddy bears are adorable. At one time we had a Christmas tree that had only bears on it. My mom even found a string of bear lights (that I still have but didn't put up). The only thing that wasn't a bear was the angel on top; that is until Brother Nowling had complained it didn't seem like it was his tree at all so I put a hook on an empty diet coke can and hung it. I had bears through out the house and had quite the collection of stuffed bears that I parted with a great number of when we left Menomonie. I have out grown the bears as I really have no desire to have bears displayed in my house...I want beauty and class now.

But the Kid in me holds on to Pooh. Loves guessing the gifts as Christmas time (even if I'm at someone elses house~lowers head in embarrassment) but I don't get under the tree and shake them like I use to (even at friends houses)and I take my time trying to find the "perfect gift" for my family and friends.

I love Christmas. The "silent night" scenes, the music, the lights, the gifts, carolling. Don't let yourself get to busy to enjoy Christmas. If you're too busy, let something go! Enjoy the peace, joy and hope that Christmas represents.

Decorating For Christmas

Tradition has been that we decorate for Christmas the evening of Thanksgiving. As you've already read, we didn't do it as we didn't have a tree. We weren't sure what we were going to do for tree; that is go real or artificial. The real trees wouldn't be really fresh (and I really hate needles everywhere), but an artificial can get costly and we'd have to find a place to store it. Well once again GOD IS GOOD,He resolved the dilemma for us. Brother Tim Osborne said Wednesday night that his neighbor had just given him an artificial tree and he was wanting to know if we wanted it. I was concerned about size as we just don't have much room already and I like to enjoy the Christmas tree and wouldn't be able to if the tree crowded us even more. He said he'd bring it over and we could decide. IT IS A GORGEOUS artificial tree (bigger than I had planned-probably about 7'). I was thinking I'd have to go with a 4 1/2' tree. But it's fine. Friday night, we(Joleesa was the only one that loved me enough to help me--love you Jody, Jessa and Jenna)the computer desk into the kitchen. I figured when we sit at the table I could pull the table out and we'd be ok. Then we took the rocker chair and made room for it in our bedroom. All and all it opened up lots more space in the living room and everyone seems to like the computer in the kitchen and it forced us to rearrange our bedroom so now Brother Nowling has a little corner of the house that is his for studying (I just need to get a magazine rack for him to put his books in so they're not sitting on MY dresser...ugh; I just clean and it's piled with his study books).

Back to the tree...the tree has both long a short needles. I've never seen anything like it. It's really full, and though you can tell its fake, it's really pretty. Saturday evening as we (all three of the girls did decorate it)were decorating we found ourselves saying "what about this decoration or that one", only for me to remember I left it behind because of the need to "downsize". So I don't have as much decorations as we're use to, but it's enough. I love our stocking and piano area. Years ago my mother-in-law purchase this scroll-like decoration that says "peace on earth" and some green pine w/pointsetta lights. For years I have made an arrangement on the piano with it and this year it looks as good as ever. Above the area where our piano sits is a cut out square so you can look into the kitchen. We had a swag hanging there, I took down the swag and Joleesa hung the stockings. It's almost as good as fireplace (yeah right). I do like it though. It is pretty and quaint at the same time.

I had one more dilemma, our washer/dryer is in our kitchen with a shower curtain to close it off from the room. Well the shower curtain really clashed with the Christmas decor and Joleesa asked if we could find a Christmas one. So Brother Nowling and I went out before church this morning (we needed our Starbucks and some groceries anyway)and looked at Fred Meyer but there weren't any. We didn't have time for Walmart and I actually did alot of shopping yesterday and didn't feel like doing Walmart again. Anyway...it dawned on me, I could turn my table cloth (that I wasn't using cuz it was too big for this table)that matched my placemats that I had out into a curtain. I don't own a sewing machine anymore but by using a table cloth versus just material, the edges are already finished and all I had to do was make some holes for the hooks. Ta da...I now have a matching curtain that adds to the Christmas festivity.

I am sitting in the living right now with the lap top. Brother Nowling snoring on beside me on the love seat, Brother Tim snoring on the couch and girls being slugs in their rooms. I'm loving the lights twinkling, fading and chasing each other amongst the oranaments, tinsel and white garland (the white garland is definitely a new experience for me but we left our garland behind and either garland's not used much or is used a lot as we went to several stores and either couldn't find any or didn't have much to choose from. So we decided to try white; though it's different, I'm actually embracing it). The pointsetta lights giving a glow on the "Peace on Earth" sign, and another accomplishment, my rainlight actually working. I had not gotten any mineral oil for my rain lamp and although it's been hanging; I haven't had it on since we moved it and this morning we actually got some mineral oil and it made the move beautifully. Then in the window we have a Season Greeting sign that's changing from one Christmas color to another. It's great actually. There is one thing missing and that's Christmas music. I would put it on my lap top with earphones but the sound card has gone out on our lap top and I don't want to disturb the sleep!

I so do love the Christmas season.

God is Good!

Though for most of you this day is almost over, I didn't want to wish the opportunity to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving.
I started my day waking up at 5 am and not able to get back to sleep...I laid there with my thinking of so many things but my parents were in the forefront. I've been wanting to call them but the time difference has been a problem. I was still awake at 7 am so I got up and called them. It was a good visit. It's been a couple of years since we've been together at Thanksgiving but for some reason just knowing it's next to impossible to be together made me really miss them. After taling for about 20 minutes I climbed into bed (as it was still dark and stays dark until about 8:30 am). I think I might have dozed but not sleep so I got up and started our turkey. Then we all worked together to clean and rearrange the house to get ready for our Christmas tree and our Christmas decorating. We then had a great dinner, cleaned up and as some of the girls and Brother Nowling nap I'm listening to the Gaither Christmas in Africa (I love their music)and I guess what Sis. Smith and Sister Tammy...I CHRISTMAS SHOPPED ON-LINE! Not bad, didn't have to leave the comfort of the couch, no crowd, and I had great music going. But I enjoy Christmas shopping. Brother Nowling hates it shopping so I usually wind up going by myself. But even then I enjoy it. And I love the Christmas departments. Even if I don't buy, I love looking.

Well I'm going to go get the homemade pumpkin pie that Sister Texter gave us, scoop on the whip cream and watch White Christmas (maybe). By the way, the Christmas decorating didn't get done...our energy fizzeled out and we weren't able to get our tree. We'll probably do it Saturday night. We're still trying to decide whether to go artificial or real!!!

Hope everyone had a great day.

Cold....

OK it is a little early to be this cold! We have attempted to see various parts of Alaska but it is so cold that we haven't been able to really enjoy it. We went to Portage Glacier and Aleyeska Saturday. It was a beautiful winter wonderland but the wind made it toooooo cold to be out there to long.

Not a lot happening here. Usually by this time we would have started our Christmas shopping. We've talked about it...but I have only got a couple of things. Usually the evening of Thanksgiving we decorate for Christmas, but I don't know if we can get a real Christmas tree that early. Then trying to figure where we'll put it is going to be a challenge in our small place. I am anxious to get decorating as it will add some life to our place.

Then the Christmas shopping...it'll be different as the "ususal" stores aren't here for me to shop at.

So besides cold weather, thoughts of Thanksgiving turkey, thinking of Christmas decorating and gifts, work and church nothing new here.

The Holy Ghost did the ministering Sunday Night

I need to start out by saying Sunday morning there was a heavy spirit in our midst. Brother Nowling preached "Peace Be Still" reminding us if we keep Him with us He'll calm us or the storm. But to remember it takes wind to move the sailboat so if the winds are calm we have to pull out the oars and start working. Think about it!

Sunday night was Sister Jessa's missionary service. She told me she wanted worship songs. Explicitly worship songs. She was wanting to do them acapalla because she wanted to worship but decided to play anyway. The Holy Ghost was bowing us before Him as we lifted Him up. EVERYONE was worshipping. Jessa was at the piano and I knew she wanted to let go and worship so before I turned it to her I asked the ladies to stand and pray...pray they did, all heaven opened and there wasn't a soul that wasn't being ministered to and it wasn't by any man or woman, but by the Spirit, Itself. It was wonderful.

Brother Kevin Brown was here with the girls basketball team that he coaches and his voice added in worship was glorious.

Have I said lately GOD IS GOOD!

Please pray for Brother Texter (Sis Grant's father), he's having problems with his kidneys.

GUESS WHAT!

You'll never guess what I'm doing right...I'm using Jenna's new Mac. I haven't quite figured out why she was so willing to let me use...unless she thought I couldn't figure it out; but I've obviously proved her wrong--tee hee.

Not a whole lot new happening here. Brother Nowling and I went to Eagle River in search of a Book and Bible Store. Yes--how sad is that, we had to leave the big city to go to a small town as to find a book and Bible store. It was a good sized one that had a room of "used" books as well as has it's own coffee shop. From there we came back to Anchorage to the native hospital visit a 12 year boy from a village outside of Bethel that was shot. Brother Nowling and Larry went to visit them Friday (Brother Sutton had called him about it)and she had mentioned she left in such a hurry she forgot to grab her Bible; hence why we wanted a Book and Bible store. She picked her up and inexpensive but pretty white Bible and put it from The Church of God Anchorage/Bethel. When we got there, there was no one in the room but their things were there so we put the Bible on her things along with Brother Nowling's business card. Please remember this family in your prayers.

After we got done we decided to finally take a drive up to Hillside (up the mountain). It is gorgeous! The houses are mansions, the sun was setting over the mountain and the inlet and I really wished I had a camera. It was breath taking and as it settled lower and the lights of the sitting came on. This is the most beautiful place I've ever lived. I am ever in awe of the beauty of this area. I can't believe they're not just pictures...this is where we live. I want to take one of these beautiful pictures and turn it into a puzzle for my mother-in-law.

The best thing about it all, is there is so much more to see!

WOW! sniff, sniff, I Love It!

OK Micah you out did yourself. If I would've told you what I wanted, this is it. Last night when I picked Joleesa up at 9 pm I picked Micah up. As the girls wanted to spend a little time with him before he left for Bethel and Jessa and Josh were both sleeping. I told him he'd have to spend the night because I wasn't going back out in the cold to take him home(and I knew it wouldn't be a problem). Anyway, I've been after Jenna to change my background but she's been busy with other things and she THINKS I couldn't LEARN to do it myself if someone showed me (maybe not, depends on how much I want to think). So I handed Micah my lap top and said surprise me. Micah was the one that did my very first blog. I didn't give him any hints. I think he may have stayed up the night working on it as Brother Nowling got up in the middle of the night to open our door (as it was sooo hot with the furnace going) and he heard someone and called out and Micah answered. These young people sure get their nights and days mixed up...oh that sounds like I'm talking about a new born baby ~tee hee.

Wow, my blog name is NEVER THE LESS, NOT MY WILL, BUT THINE and this background depicts what His will was for us. ALASKA. Thank you Micah. The cold we've been experiencing, the large city (traffic and one way streets), the small duplex vs a house with a full basement, the lack of food that we're use, and higher prices some times cause me to whine, or "murmur". But God is good. His will is perfect. The people here in Alaska and His creation all around us is worth it. And Joleesa this is home and someday we'll feel as comfortable and safe here as we did in Menomonie. All in due time.

Feeling Old!!!

This weekend I finally went shopping for a winter coat as my Columbia coat doesn't fit any more (so Jenna get's it...she won't buy it because she really doesn't like purple~shakes head). Josh and Joleesa were with me and I made the mistake (I think it was a mistake) in asking how different ones looked. Their comment on the first two was "it looks like something my grandma would wear". Ooookay! I'm not that old so let's try another one...this is all after going to about 5 stores by myself. Anyway I did find one that according to the girls is "so me" ~smile.

Then we went ice skating. I love doing that kind of stuff but I haven't for...as the kids asked how many years and I said ummmm maybe 30-35, I really felt old. I was determined to try but not be foolish and kill myself so my precious little girl cared enough to always be there helping me. Between Micah and Tim I got to "say" I skated (they mostly just pulled me around). I told Joleesa I absolutely was going to make it with both feet moving. I did it to, but then I was done. Oh by the way, I only fell twice, right at first once by myself and once with Tim. When Tim tried to help me up, I was laughing so hard he was having a difficult time. I'm sure Jenna will be posting pictures of our afternoon on the ice. Though I felt kind of foolish...it felt good and I enjoyed myself and I appreciate our young people for not minding having me around.

Ergonomics

My boss volunteered my station for the Ergonomics team and they were thrilled. It wa team of interns and a couple of stations from each department was part of the trainging. I apparently was a challenge. The desk was built in that location; not your average desk. Too high for the normal chair. The computer keyboard had a tray that pulls out, tilts, and has a mouse tray. When I first started my neck and shoulders hurt terrably using the mouse tray. I was sitting too far away, too low, etc. Anyway after an hour of watching me work and measuring me. The tray was brought back, moved over and tilted the opposite direction. The mouse tray was moved down and over. My chair was moved down, the monitor moved closer and over. File cabinet brought in to get accordian files off the floor and do away with portable moving file, files were moved from behind the monitor (I was reaching a lot). The most strange part, the area where I do my paper work was raised with an 8" platform and I'm to stand at it. My chair had been raised so high that I found myself standing frequently anyway because I had to step on my tip toes to get into my chair and have a foot stool under my feet because they didn't touch the floor. So we'll see. It definitly forced me to get organized as I've just not had the time to prior. My station has gotten raised eyebrows, laughs and heads shaking but I promised I'd try it. My neck and shoulders hurt a little bit; I think they need to bring my monitor up a little. I think the ergo team is still around tomorrow so they can check out why my shoulders and neck hurt. I really was afraid to have anything changed because I wasn't having problems any more.

God has helped me so many times on the job. I have made major errors that could've cost the company big bucks but every single time...I was saved. I have felt the hand of God when things have got really hectic and I have felt overwhelmed.

Next week Sister Texter (Sister Grant's mother) is going to meet me for lunch. I am soooo looking forward to time with her. I really want to spend some time with Sister Grant too.

Well I've rambled enough. God bless

One more sign that I've become an Alaskan

I now have studded tires. Yup! I'm feeling more and more like an Alaskan. Not a bad thing. I'm little by little feeling at home. Then at the same time there's time it hits me, I'm really in Alaska. This is not a vacation. This IS home. Alaska home! I still can't believe it at times.

Hey a cool thing happened at work yesterday. My boss called for me to come into his office for about 10 minutes. I get in there and his boss is in there and they asked for me to close the door. They let me know they filled the vacant spot (pending the drug test results) and then proceeded to thank me profusely for all that I stepped into and how well I handled it. Then a knock comes at the door and it's my bosses, bosses boss. He asks if he might interrupt for a moment and he turns to me and says he is so glad I've joined ADN, that they couldn't have had a better fit for that desk (the national desk). I then took advantage to, no not ask for more money, but ask for overtime as I need it and then asked for help with a stack of clients needing affadavits. I received a all inclusive yes for overtime whenever I felt it was necessary and that stack off papers needing affadavits is no longer on my desk. It was pretty "sweet" to say the least.

Have I said God is good!

Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, Job 38:22

We have SNOW and PTL the trailer is gone. SOLD! and the timing couldn't be better as we have about 3-4 inches of snow. We would have had to figure a place to move it for them to plow...yeah right plow, I don't think Anchorage knows what it means to plow! We haven't seen a plow yet. Anyway at least the trailer is gone, so it's not a problem. I also got a car...yeah a car, a Ford Taurus. Not the Outback, Jacyln, we couldn't get the payments we needed so I got a 2005 Ford Taurus. Josh and Micah (Micah in particular) have had to bite their tongues due to it being a Ford. But the Lord gave us a great interest rate, that got the payments down, along with that I get brand new STUDDED tires as the tires that were on it were bald so they're throwing in the new tires...but they aren't on yet. They'll pick it up from my work tomorrow and put them on so it'll be sloooooow going on these roads.

The snow is beautiful...but Sister Becki snow means Christmas songs to me but they won't let me start singing them yet. Go figure. We'll just skip Halloween and join Thanksgiving and Christmas together. We can go caroling because Jenna loves to do Christmas caroling--NOT! She's already declaring she's not going if we do. Scrooge!
The snow is beautiful and I'm looking forward to seeing Joleesa get into snowboarding and Jessa and Jenna get into...I'm not sure what but I'm sure they'll do something. I wish I was younger, I loved snow tubing, I've done some cross country but that was a long time as was ice skating. Ice skating, Anchorage has a rink in middle of the Dimond mall, how cool is that! Literally out in the open. You can skate without freezing...but we need the snow to to be falling.

Anyway it looks like winter is here and I'm determined to make sure we enjoy it seeing it lasts so long.

Trailer Sale Not Finalized

We were not able to meet with the man to finalize the trailer sale. Brother Nowling had to work late. Please pray for Brother Nowling. He's suppose to be working the Palmer area for Fed Ex. Palmer is a small town, lot of driving less deliverying. Instead they had him work Anchorage because the regular driver hurt his back. This means big truck (which isn't a real big deal except for the tight places he has to get it in and out of), big and heavy boxes and lots of stops. He strained a muscle in his back and was hurting pretty bad. He's not that young any more and this is tough for him. Top that off with the fact that technically he works for Kelly Services (long story, and wierd set up) and he has worked 3 weeks and hasn't gotten a pay check. He has never actually personally had anything to do with Kelly Service it's all been done through Fed Ex so they are the ones that need to follow up and he's not having a lot of success.

In regards to the trailer the guy is still interested and has planned to meet Saturday morning. We have a couple of complications that we would like your prayers in. One, if you remember we had had trouble with the one brake on the way up and they took it off, well Brother Nowling didn't tell him about it thinking he could get it back on...NOT. So he has to tell him about that which we really don't think will be a problem as we've already come down considerably in price. More importantly the bank says it could take 3 months to get the title...so we've got to figure out to do this sale without a title. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Please pray that nothing goes awry in this sale.

Yes Jaclyn it is an Outback that I would LIKE but probably won't happen as I don't think we can afford even a used one. I'm too the place I just want my own vehicle and my only request are that I don't need a step ladder to get in in, nor a crane to pull me out of it (Jessa's Nissan is like sitting on the ground), that it'll handle well on winter roads and it's in our price range. I hope that's not too much to ask Lord~wink. I think you get the idea.

My work is going, ummmmm...good I guess. I feel like I just get on top of things and things get thrown at me and I get behind again. Actually I guess I haven't been totally caught up yet and that might be the key. Yesterday I did sale a full page, color ad worth almost $9,000. I don't work commission, but because this was a totally new account, I do think I get some kind of bonus. Even if I don't, it felt like quite the accomplishment!

Everyone is working in our house now so we haven't gotten into a routine yet of chores. Everyone get's home at different hours which you would think makes it easier but not really.

Any way life is good but please continue to remember us in your prayers, especially Brother Nowling today. We appreciate everyone of them.

We Sold Our Trailer! PTL!

Have I said the Lord is good lately! Today we sold our trailer. It's a military man that is moving to Missouri. He's got ATV's and bikes he's going to barge to Haines and then pull the rest of the way. Monday he will wire the money to our bank from his bank and the title will be released on the trailer. Then I can start looking for a car.

PTL for He is good!

It's A Good Thing

It's a really good thing...everyone is finally got jobs. Even in the local church. Brother Nowling and Jenna finally got work. Brother Grant is driving school bus (it's funny to listen to his stories, this is truly a new experience for him~grin), Larry got a good second job.Matthew got a job at the Alaska Club and now is headed to the Slope (the pipeline) as to do security (2 weeks on and 2 weeks off). I guess the Alaska Club is even going to work with him so that he can still work for them on his 2 weeks off. Although Jessa and Tim both need better jobs, everyone is finally working. God has provided once again and sometimes we forget to thank Him.

We now need God to provide vehicles. I desperately need one (but our trailer needs to sell first), Matthew and Micah need one. But I know God is able to provide. Also, my whole family needs to take the Alaska driving test (written) as to switch our drivers license and/or permits over (yuck, I hate tests). Before we know it it'll seem like we lived here forever (that may be stretching it a little)...we've never lived in this big of city before but Alaska itself is feeling like home. No snow yet (Menomonie has), temps in the 40's (Menomonie in the 30's). We can handle this. It isn't getting daylight though until between 8 am and 9 am. That's strange and is going to get stranger. So far this week I haven't seen daylight, unless I happen to peek out the windows as I walk by one at work.

Work was a nightmare at work on Tuesday and I had a meltdown, but I have really prayed each day and asked God just to keep me calm and help me to make myself stay with a project until it's finished as much as possible. So far the rest of the week has been good. I have really felt the peace of God in the busyness of each day.

Let Me Explain

Let me explain my camp boost. I only was suppose to have 5 minutes and I needed to deal with the camp deficit from previous years as well as generate excitement for coming camp. I wanted to share different aspects of camp fun being one of them...thus Brother Nowling and the marshmallow gun. The pigs have been the dirtiest cabin mascot for many camps that I directed. These dancing pigs were my going away gift from the Great Lakes Region. The counselors of the messiest cabin had to carry a stuffed pig around...although Sis. Tammi, you gave me an idea. I think I'll let the cleanest cabins babysit the stuffed dancing pigs and the messiest cabins have to act like them~tee hee! What do you think?

So I had this all going on as I was making announcements. I did have to stop Brother Nowling a couple of times as I obviously lost severals attention. But it definitely woke everyone up and got them to think camp. It also means we have to make some more marshmallow guns so everyone can have one at camp~grin.

Have a great day.

Good Convention

We had a good convention. It was great seeing the Bethel folks. Unfortunately this time, we didn't get to spend time with Suttons. They had the great challenge of trying to get all their winter supplies in just the few hours between services. We'll be looking forward to spending time with them in Bethel in March for the youth convention.

As you saw from Jenna's blog Isaiah was here and it was great having him around.

I had to boost youth camp and I only had a few minutes so I had several things going on at the same time...Brother Nowling was shooting marshmellows through Brother Jimmy William's marshmallow gun invention, dancing pigs were going on the floor as I was making announcements. I am really excited about camp. There was $300 deficit in the camp fund and by the end of the boost we had only $90 left.











Then I boosted ladies retreat. How could I not be excited about ladies retreat, Sister Connie Wilson is going to be our evangelist. The men outnumbered the women and I told the ladies this is the time for us to balance this out and get more women...the guys were liking that idea too~shaking head~ By the way Brother Nowling made it known how much he was enjoying having some manly support around him for a change.

Then last night we had our youth service. I really felt the burning of the Spirit within me. We "pretended" to be different things and then I preached on "whited sepulchres" and Achan. The Lord really moved. We had a great altar service and following that I paired the young people with an older person to pray and Holy Ghost was powerfully in that place. I pray the young people had a real life changing time with the Lord.

I then had to work today and I was exhausted. I got there turned on my computer and just got a white screen. My computer some how crashed over the weekend. Go figure, it was fine on Friday and no one used it during the weekend. After about three hours they were able to retrieve my archived items and files...but I'm behind again.

God is still good though.

Minister's Convention This Weekend

Well tonight begins our minister's convention. We'll get to see the Bethel folks. Suttons were suppose to stay with us, but they changed their minds. I'm really disappointed as I was looking forward to visiting with them, but they're getting in late tonight and then have to get supplies tomorrow so they felt it would be better to get a hotel. Oh well, I'll still get to see them and fellowship after the services. Here in Alaska the conventions are Friday and Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Saturday morning there's a state staff meeting and then the rest of the day is open for the Bethel folks to get supplies. This will be the first convention in years that I don't have to plan a program. I'll be doing a short Youth Camp boost and Ladies Retreat boost, but that's it. It's good because I don't have to prepare but I actually enjoyed (despite the nerves) putting it all together and watching God pull it off.

The bummer of it all is Brother Nowling has to work as he is taking his tests from his Fed Ex training. Because Monday was Columbus Day they didn't train so now they have to finish Saturday. We don't know yet if it'll be a full day or not. So any way tonight will be hectic and I will be carless tomorrow so Jessa has to share with me...

Young People Today

Did you know if you take laptops and cell phones away from our young people they wouldn't be able to exist. Let's see if any of them would disagree with me. The youth around here have one, or the other or both going at all times. They are texting, or msn'g each other even while sitting in the same room. ~shaking head~ A couple of weeks ago during youth activity (Mind you not chuch or devotions, they are always good about turning them off for those) I asked them to give me the next 45 minutes of game time that no one used their cell. THEY DID IT, but I think some were having withdrawls ~lol

I saw a moose today right in the median. It was a mama and she was eating the grass.

The Spirit really came down in service last night. But there was one corner of the church where a couple of youth weren't responding. I believe they were trying to ignor His prompting. They think they succeeded but God will not forget them. Please help me pray.

I REALLY did see my moose now

Sis. Tammi, I agree Joleesa was cuter than any other moose. I did finally see one yesterday in the woods. I didn't get a clear look but I saw one. I think it made Brother Nowling happier than me ~big grin~

I actually drove Brother Nowling to work and home today. It was quite the accomplishement as we work on opposite sides of town through thick traffic, and in the dark. It was actually good for me. Unfortunately it means he had to wait an hour of half for me. But he's in training and it gave him an opportunity to study. I need to plan my day so I am out the door right at 5:30 p.m. so he won't have to wait quite as long. I so do want to get me a Subaru Outback. It's not a truck, its not a van, it's not a station wagon it's kind of a combination. But if it's the Lord's will, it will happen, I just have to be patient ~something I'm not good at.

Work is going better. I'm actually feeling like I'm getting on top of things. I'm also getting to know some of the people. Even actually shared some laughter.

Once again God is good!

I Saw My First moose

Bro. Nowling and the girls have seen several Moose since being here but I haven't... Until tonight!

An Albino one at that!

We went out to eat after service at Applebees and the young people were doing all kinds of silly things for Jenna to capture on her new camera and Joleesa was the leader of the pack (or should I say herd).

We had great services. I'm really enjoying teaching the youth SS class and they must be enjoying it to as they all really get into it. Worship services have beenawesome. Brother Nowling has been stepping on toes in his messages, but that's what we need as to go on to perfection. Jenna traded services with Jessa as she had to work and she had everyone captivated as she spoke on Hebrews 12:1, 2. Hopefully she'll show you some of the pictures. The Lord is good.

I do hope we see some sunshine soon. Its been several cloudy days with rain off and on.

BUT the Lord is Good.

Together In The Good and the Bad

It's amazing how God brings His family together from far and near as they share in good times and bad. We share from each others experiences and I am so greatful for that.
-Sis. Tammy - no matter how muddled your brain gets due to weariness (physically or emotionally) you exuberate His love.
-Sis. Smith - I'll gladly resend this post IF that day comes. We know the hand of God is on us. We can feel His tenderness and love...but it's reminders like this that help us when we are feeling weak.
-Sis. Annette - our journey holds so many purposes behind it. In everything we do for the Lord we glean so much for ourselves. I love you Sis and look forward to spending some time with you.

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST: Please pray for the girls. Each one has special needs that they desperately need God to intervene on their behalf.

I Feel The Shoe Falling

Well today I felt the shoe falling. My job has been sooooooooooooo stressful. The girl that I replaced has made LOTS of mistakes. Around every corner I was being given another mistake to resolve, grrrrrrr. I worked 4 hours Saturday to get caught up and I'm so behind again. My desk looks like it threw up paper!!!

Then I come home and there's 27 boxes of books sitting through out the house. Brother Nowling's office books that a friend in Menomonie sent up sporadically all arrived today! Poor Brother Nowling is trying to figure out where in the small "cold storage" room that is being turned into his office, is he going to put all these books, old White Wings, Old Happy Harvestors, etc.

Then if you remember I said Brother Nowling got a job at Fed Ex, he still hasn't started. He had his drug test Friday and was suppose to start training this week when the drug test results came back...he hasn't heard anything. Tomorrow he has an interview with Pepsi---Sister Becki he will actually be a traitor to Coke (he is a Diet Coke enthusiast, it's nothing for him to have several a day), but if the pay and hours are right; yes he'll be traitor and work Pepsi, but I'm confident he'll still drink his Diet Coke.

You've read about Jenna's not getting a job yet. Well Jessa has one and is greatful that she does, but she's begging to quit because she hates it.

Then there's Joleesa she's been literally crying "I want to go home" to Menomonie. She's having a rough time; she's missing her friends in Menomonie. To say the least tears were shed today!!!

We've been here almost a month and I haven't even seen all of Anchorage. I'm beginning to wonder if I'll ever feel comfortable in this big city. I have to have maps drawn for every place I go. Going from population of 14,000 to 265,00, I feel like an ant. I've only driven to work and the grocery store (by myself). I drove with Josh and Micah to Dimond area last Sunday but that's it. Saturday I've asked to go for a drive to Wassila, Girdwood, or somewhere not to far but will allow me to see some of the sights.

I guess a month really isn't that long but I want to feel at home in Anchorage, and it's hard to feel at home where don't know where anything is. By the way grocery shopping is the pits here. I don't know what brands to buy and I'm finding I need to be careful as to the quantity as things spoil really fast. Milk was spoiled just after a week. A block of cheese had mold on it and buns molded just a few days after I brought them home. And we're not even talking about how expensive everything is.

All and all though I felt the shoe falling, it really didn't hit bottom as in service, out of stress and fatique as I was trying to lead song service singing "Never Alone" and "Count Your Blessings" I couldn't get the tears to abate. The people were precious as I tried to explain and the spirit was so loving. So though I felt like the other shoe was dropping (by the way if you don't know what I'm talking about, read my previous post "Ever Wonder" and read the comments) my God was good once again and kept it from hitting bottom!

Busy Weekend

It's been a busy weekend. It started with me going into work for 4 hours on Saturday to get the pile of filing done, which I did and does that feel good. Brother Nowling went fishing on the Kenai River with Micah and Matthew. It was 2 1/2 hour drive and they fished for about 2 hours and caught two fish, a pink salmon and a silver salmon, only to throw them back in because they were sickly (by the way it was Brother Nowling that caught them, the boys didn't get anything). He really had a good time.

I then went grocery shopping,came back and cleaned house with the girls for the youth activity. I really wonder why we bothered, by the time we got all those bodies in no one could see anything any ways, and it obviosly didn't look as good when they left :0P Jenna told you about the pizza and the games. It also was an organization meeting. We planned a fund raiser, our next couple of activities and talked about finding a way to volunteer in the committee. There were 10 young people and Brother Nowling and myself.

Sunday then we broke out a youth SS class which I taught and it was great to see everyone get involved. They have a tendency to keep silent when the JOY group is present. Of course I don't always wait for them to volunteer *grin* although they did a lot of that. There was a great Presence in service too. I believe we had 23 in service. We had only 3 empty seats and were missing 4 people.

As Jenna said the Cabeles' joined us for dinner. I enjoyed having them because it was the first I'd really met them. They're a precious young couple.

Then Josh, Micah and Joleesa and I went to look at cars at this weekend sale Brother Nowling waited for someone to come look at the trailer. This guy was so close to buying it. He said he had the cash in his pocket as he was moving on th 5th but he went and looked at another trailer and decided to buy it. Please pray we sale it. I need a car and we really can't get me one until the trailer sales. I found an Outback that I really liked. This one had 123,000 miles on it and cost way to much, but at least I know what kind of vehicle I WANT.

Last night was another good service. I PTL for the Spirit that has been in every service. I'm really praying for a great altar service, speaking of which it would be great to have an actual altar...I think that's something we'll work on next weekend.

Most Beautiful Flowers

These are the flowers that Dad got for mom on their anniversary.

There was only suppose to be 3 lilies (one to represent each of us girls) and 2 roses (to represent the two of them) dad has done something like that every year. Well as you can see the florist threw in a whole lot more then 3 lilies :-) One thing is for sure our house smells wonderful!

Ever Wonder...

Not a lot happening. My job is busier then I ever dreamed. I feel buried because the girl that was there before me was really behind. Then working for a daily paper with 165,00 circulation is majorly different than working for a twice a week paper with a 4500 circulation. And deadlines mean nothing to the advertisers. I spent 75% of my day today getting late ads in, killing ads and changing ads. The only 25% was trying to get the ads in that deadlined, giving quotes, and dealing with errors from my predecessor. I thought I was taking the less stressful job...but I'm beginning to wonder. I am working a4 hours overtime on Saturday with hopes of getting dug out without phones or emails. Hopefully this will save time as my boss and I won't spend so much time hunting for things. I had orientation with the publisher yesterday (first time even saw him). We went around and introduced ourselves and I said my husband was a minister and accepted a church here. Today in the lunch room, one of the girls that were in orientation was asking details. She is going to a huge church that doesn't even know she exists. So she wanted the details. Pray she comes. That would really be awesome!

Brother Nowling is waiting to hear when he starts at Fed Ex. Joleesa had her orientation at McDonald's. Jessa is looking at taking a job working at a ski resort about 30 minutes away. As you know Jenna has a job interview at ADN on Monday, please pray for her. She really needs to get work.

Church is going well. We're having our first "scheduled" youth function Saturday. I wanted a gym night but I'm having difficulty finding a place so we'll have a game night here with homemade pizza. I hope the youth bring visitors.

Have you ever wondered when things are going so good and keep feeling overwhelmed with God's goodness, how long will it last. I love the Lord so much and I know were in His perfect will. He's proven Himself over and over. But I know the enemy is still present...things by no means are perfect...but they're good, and it's been a long time since it's been like this for me and to have it last so long is scary. At the same time I have felt quilty thinking it, yet a lone actually mention and yet I can't get away from t

Beautiful Flowers For My Anniversary

Well Jody had the most beautiful lilies and roses delivered to my office (I'll try to get Jenna to post a picture). I don't know flowers these are really big with the black dots on it. I was totally surprised as I thought it in the past we talked about his not spending that kind of money on something that would die (but at the convincing of the middle daughter, he did) and I DO love them. There are 11 lilies and 2 red roses. I guess he only requested 3 lilies (representing the 3 girls and the two of us, anyway that's what he usually has done when he's gotten me flowers) but for some reason they put in 11 and several of them are buds. They are the most beautiful flowers ever...BUT they are also VERY fragrant and within abouat 15 minutes I had the director's secretary telling me one of the other directors were miserably allergic to and as she was telling me, the poor girl who sit a few feet from me said she was too. She has asthma real bad and has been out sick the last 5 days with bronchitus and yesterday was her first day back. I didn't drive to work, Jody dropped me off so I told them I didn't know what to do. She went and talked to the director and he was going to keep his office door closed (I wasn't sure if that was going to be enough as they were really potent) and I felt so sorry for Rhoda. Jody was over at Fed Ex filling out paper work for the job it looks like he got (PTL) but he didn't know if they would have him start right then too. I decided to go ahead and call and he wasn't working he was at Long John Silver's eating lunch, so I asked when he got done if he would come pick up the flowers ~big sigh~ I too, have problems with strong fragrants and they were even beginning to effect me. So they were brought home to offset the smell of the pink salmon that Matthew fixed the girls, Micah, and Josh for dinner (which didn't take place until after we got back from our dinner as he took Jessa to get us an anniversary gift ~giggle). Anyway, we ate at the Cattle Company and had the best food since we've been here. I don't remember the last time I was that full. We shared the most awesome piece of cheese cake with strawberry sauce on it. We then came home, walking in the door saying how full we were to groans of Jenna in particular telling us to be quiet because the chef went to get spices over 2 hours ago ~grin~ I then gave Jody his gift (we had gone right from his picking me up from work) a palm pilot, that is how Josh come to take me mudding and grocery shopping on Sunday. He really took me to Best Buy and the rest became our excuse as to why we were gone so long. Anyway, Jody was shocked. He must have said a dozen time to Josh, Micah and Brother Grant how he wanted one and was asking questions. When I gave it to him he said he had been joking (yeah right) now he's got to get one of the boys to help him figure out how to use it. He had to charge it last night so after church tonight- beware.

All and all it was good celebration of 25 years (although I do hope to get away in a couple of months, just the two of us). I do wish I still could have my flowers on my desk at work, but this way we don't need an air freshner at home.

Because He First Loved Us, We Can Love Each Other! And I Love You More and More Each Year Jody, Happy Anniversary!

This was on our wedding invitations, napkins, etc 25 years ago and 25 years is a miracle in this day and age, but to me it is a treasure. God has given me a treasure in my husband, Jody. I knew at the time I married him he was minister (in another church mind you) but I thank God that He has given me a man that listens, waits and is obedient to His voice (and not always to mine ~tee hee~). I never would have thought that we would be in Alaska ministering together but I thank God that my husband has said "not my will but thine" through out our life and there has been many times it really went against my will (never).

I also thankful for 3 beautiful girls that we have raised together to love and serve the Lord. I know there are Godly men out there for them that someday they will be able to look forward to spending 25 years with (oh am I in trouble for that one - lol - but that's ok it's fun). Hey guys, whoever you are, you better treat them right though they're not just our's they belong to God.

I love you honey. I'm looking forward to our dinner date. We're going to The Cattle Company for dinner. The BB and/or drive around Alaska will come at another time Sis. Smith. I will be waiting to see what surprise the girls and the young people that hang out at our place will have for us (hint, hint).

Off Roading/Mud Bogging

Yes, my Sunday afternoon consisted of off roading/mud bogging in Joshua Grant's 4x4 truck. I didn't know that we were going to be having this wild ride but yes, he took his pastor's wife through mud, up and down steep hills, over very bumpy dirt woodsy roads. That is after he had to pull me up into his truck. Now remember this is his mudder truck so the seat belt didn't fit me, I'd grap the seat handle but it was broken. This pastor's wife was bumped around but believe it or not she enjoyed it. And Mr. Josh was grinning the whole time! Would I do it again...we'll see ~smile. I did tell him there's no way I would go street racing with him. I don't even want to know when he goes! In turn he had to go grocery shopping with me...he was a real champ in that and actually a lot of help as I'm still not familiar where things are and what brands are better (seeing as there are only a few that I'm familiar with).

Saturday night was even a different story, Matthew Peter was here and he purchased a pay per view of UFC street fighting. Yes, we had a house full of men (including Brother Grant) watching 3 hours of fighting ~groan/smile~

Then Sunday morning all but one of them were in church (and that one was out Sunday night) and what a service we had. We had 21 in SS, SS was good, worship was great, the message was thought provoking. Sunday night we had 15 out for CPMA service (2 visitors) and Jenna did a good devotion on trademarks, registerations and copyrights. Oh and to back up, Saturday night we had prayer meeting and we had 14 out with 11 being youth. I am just overwhelmed with the youth that are here. They are really wanting to be involved. Several of them live at our house every night. Not only has church grown for us but it seems like our family has too. The girls have "brothers" around on a regular basis and we feel like we have "sons". They have been great in helping out with everything too. And Brother Nowling is no longer out numbers...although when Codi is here they are still out numbered ~smile~ But Brother Ray...Brother Nowling still uses the "man law" as he sees fit.

Oh by the way tomorrow is our 25th Anniversary. It's hard to believe 25 years! And I love him more each day! He is my best friend...I would rather spend time with him then anyone else. He's so easily entertained. He can watch the planes forever. He can spot wildlife in the deepest woods. He can stand and stare at the mountains forever. He loves little children. He (we) looke forward to grandchildren. These have been 25 great years but I am looking forward to 25 even greater years. I love you Jody!

By the way, have I said recently that God is good!

Job's Going Good But I'm Tired

My job is going good. I'm getting a lot of excercise walking around the huge building. Bible study at church was good as was the worship service. BUT I'm sooo tired. I went to bed at 10 pm last night and slept pretty good. I don't start work until 8:30 a.m. so I didn't get up until 6:45 am (although I did wake up several times between 4 am and 6:45). I hope to get up even earlier eventually to spend more time in devotions and ADN has a work out room with stationary bikes, treadmills, etc They have a shower so I can actually go in early and work out and then go to work. But I've just been toooo tired.

We've also got to get the young people on a schedule that means late nights at our house on Fridays and Saturdays and not week nights. I know itll make a difference when the girls are all working. Then they'll have a little more understanding. I love them all and want them to feel welcome but I need my sleep. I do have to say they have been good about being quiet. I just hate going to bed with a house full of people~I might miss out on something.

Brother Nowling and the girls went to a job fair today and he has lots of potentially good opportunities so he'll be filling out applications tomorrow.

I'm really looking forward to this weekend. To have time for....whatever I want to or need to ~smile.

EARLY MORNING BREAKFAST AND FIRST DAY ON THE JOB

This morning I met Mr. Wong (the job I turned down) for breakfast at 6:30 am as he insisted he still wanted to meet me and share with me some more things in case things didn't work out at the newspaper. It was his 84th birthday today and he shared that it's time that he give instead of receiving and his vision for the store buildings he owns is to help rehabilitate native Alaskans that have lost themselves in alcohol by opening up space for them to sale their arts and crafts at a major profit. There's a lot more to it but that is it in a nut shell. I finally came out and asked him why he was so sold on me (he never even called any of my references). He said with my skills and my husband being in the ministry he felt I would be able to share in his vision. WOW! He'll be back in October (he lives in Hawaii) and will be in touch with me to see how things are going for me at ADN. I'll be praying!

My first day started with me going past the office twice...but I was still there 10 minutes early. It was a good day except for those STUPID POINTED SHOES that I thought were comfortable. The building is huge with 2 floors and lots of steps. Of course they gave me a tour and my feet were killing me. I walked stocking foot around the immediate office when I had a chance as my feet just throbbed. Jessa looks are not everything. It'll be flats tomorrow. I'm short, and so what. Other than that everything was good. A lot of it I'm already familiar with. The only thing is the inside sales girl quit recently so I'm actually being trained in for two jobs (I wish the pay reflected that) but it too doesn't seem too bad. The people have stayed with the overall reception we have received from Alaska folks, very friendly. As Brother Nowling keeps saying, they're so friendly you're afraid they're going to give you a hug ~giggle (you've got to get this picture of Brother Nowling and this new acquaintance standing close to him and him inching his way back - not really but that's what I picture). I told my boss about my meeting with Mr. Wong and he said that he can't have me because of my newspaper experience. Anyway, thank the Lord for another good day.

Please pray for Brother Nowling, it turns out this bus driving job is requiring over 40 hours of training without pay and fees that he has to fork out of over
$250 that he won't get reimbursed for. There's other hidden things that makes him question whether he should continue on. He applied on line for two Fed Ex positions tonight so we'll see what the Lord has for him. Also, remember the girls as they try to find jobs.

Have you heard of an unspoken testimony. I want to PTL for a HUGE blessing that we received Sunday night. I can't share the details because we've been asked not to...but have I said lately that GOD IS GOOD!

I HATE SHOPPING FOR CLOTHES!

Besides all the frustrations Sis. Smith listed in her comment I am so short and misporportioned (in other words, fat) that it is so hard to find anything that fits properly. Then add to it the lack of stores as Jenna said, (ie Fashion Bug, Christopher Banks, etc) it really becomes a nightmare. Basically I shopped Penny's and Sears. I did find about 3 outfits but I had hoped to get more for the amount that I spent. Sister Smith I wish I did sew. I've tried several times in my lifetime and I don't have the patience. Let me cook any day, but sewing's not for me. I do hem but that is a problem for me when it comes to things that are lined or cuffed! Besides all that, we left our sewing machine behind. But God is good. I did find things that were modest, looked professional and I felt comfortable in them. And I made Jessa real happy as she insisted I needed pointed toe shoes as to make my legs look longer. I said no way...then I went to payless and found some semi-pointed toe shoes that are really comfortable and actually don't make my legs look so thick (another way of saying fat ~smile). She's even wanting to borrow them!

Anyway, today was our first Sunday service. We had 16 out and there was a really good Spirit there. With out a doubt we will rapidly out grow the Grant's garage as it was pretty tight quarters. Tonight I'm doing a youth service. It is so great as this church has more youth than anything. There is so much potential here. Have I said God is Good!